Owning the Moment | Tom Gundelfinger O'Neal
an Exhibition of Photography
Artist Reception
Friday, March 19
5:30-8:00 p.m.
with an
Artist Presentation at
7:00 p.m.
Exhibition Dates
March 18 - May 12
About the Artist
Being in the right place at the right time can sometimes change the entire focus of one’s life. In 1967 at the Monterey Pop Festival, that happened to Tom Gundelfinger O’Neal. He and his camera were present at the center of the whirlwind that was the Los Angeles rock and roll scene in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s. He had unlimited access to some of the most influential musicians of his time, and has the body of photographic work to show for it.
Early on, with a profound fascination of all things creative, Tom immersed himself in the study of painting and design at the University and Art Institute of Chicago and eventually transitioned to photography. He found himself in great demand by several high profile rock and roll stars. Ironically, he applied both his photographic and graphic design skills in the creation of over 80 album covers, including the iconic Déjà Vu cover with Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young. Other notable groups were the Rolling Stones, Steppenwolf, Joni Mitchell, Poco, Crazy Horse, the Mamas and the Papas, B.B. King, and The Three Tenors. He developed relationships with entertainers that have created opportunities for many years to follow.
All artists look for inspiration in their subjects. In the 70’s Tom was hired by the Peace Corp with key shooting assignments in the Congo. From Africa he traveled to Paris and London where he absorbed the art scene. There he experimented with light and shadow, developing techniques that remain innovative and contemporary in the current artistic photography seen today.
Ready to have a more permanent location Tom returned to California and set up a studio on the Monterey Peninsula. He continues to work with people, but also continues his passion for still-life, landscape and advertising photography.
From the saturated color palette of Mexico to the ethereal hues and shadows of Venice, Tom revels in the process of creativity. In fact, his photos are simply a reflection of his unbridled approach to life. "Whether a still life or of people, each photograph, represents a burst of excitement," he says. Just like Tom at work.
Note: Through a strategic partnership with Tom O’Neal, OGS will open a community dark room for photographers of all ages to be launched in March 2016.
About the OGS Gallery
Our intimate exhibition space mounts eight exhibitions per year. We are open to proposals from OGS members for solo and group shows. Contact us for more information.